“We are so very proud of them. Your labour and sacrifice will never be in vain.

“What these men represent is the quest for national defence and preservation of the aspiration of the Nigerian people,” he stressed.

To the families of the slain soldiers, Mohammed said: “Your husbands and children made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of this great country. They did not die in vain as they had given the ultimate duty to Nigeria .

“We will remember them forever as the brave soldiers.

“I want to assure you that myself and all my staff will always be there for you whenever the need arises.”

The GOC charged the troops to regard the death of their colleagues as “antidote for inspiration and determination to go all out and rid your respective Areas of Operation of kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements.

“I want to assure you of the unwavering support of the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of our dear nation in ensuring that you are provided with necessary equipment as well as adequate welfare to carry out your duty effectively and efficiently.”

NAN reports that the Nigerian Defence Academy presented N500,000 to the families of each of the 14 soldiers as assistance, pending the processing of their benefits.